Degrees & Certificates • Academic Programs • Auto Body Repair
Auto Body Repair
The Auto Body Repair Program at Somerset Community College Laurel Campus South trains students in several areas, including: Auto Body Painter Helper; Auto Body Helper; Automotive Painter; Collision Repair Technician and Collision Repair Technician (Associate of Applied Science degree in General and Occupational Studies [AAS--GOTS] in Auto Body).
Auto Body consists of repair of the non-structural components of a vehicle (fenders and hoods), welding (arc, lap and plug), painting and refinishing (acrylic enamels, base clearcoat), plastic repair, mechanical repairs, structural repairs, framework, electrical troubleshooting and repair, and air conditioning service.
What can I do with this degree?
The Auto Body Program prepares students for entry level positions at various skill levels and training time durations. The following is a list of exit levels and a brief job description of each certificate, diploma and degree area:
•Auto Body Painter Helper — (Certificate 26 credit hours) This person will work with the painter mixing paint products, masking and vehicle prep, before and after the painting process.
•Auto Body Helper — (Certificate 13 credit hours) This person will work with replacing sheet metal, grinding, sanding, filing, priming, and helping the frame technician.
•Automotive Painter — (Certificate 56 credit hours) This person will work on sheet metal, plastics and adhesives, frame work, mechanical, and electrical components with a greater emphasis on painting.
•Collision Repair Technician — (Diploma 63 - 65 credit hours) This person will work on sheet metal repair, as a painter, as a frame technician, computer estimator and performing mechanical and electrical applications.
•Collision Repair Technician (Associate of Applied Science degree in General and Occupational Studies - AAS--GOTS - in Auto Body - minimum 42 credit hours + 15 restricted general education hours)—This person will work on sheet metal repair, as a painter, as a frame technician, computer estimator technician, mechanical and electrical applications or parts technician. This person can do anything associated with auto body and has a more thorough understanding of the auto body business and industry.
When and How do I get started with this degree?
The following materials must be on file in the Admissions Office:
- Application for admission to SCC
- Official high school transcript or passing GED official score report
- Transcripts of all post-secondary education or training
- Results of the COMPASS or ACT examination report
Check out the SCC calendar to find out when class terms and enrollment begins. For more information on becoming a student at SCC follow our 9 easy steps for becoming a student at SCC.
Student Responsibilities
In addition to tuition, students are responsible for transportation to the co-op site, appropriate attire, and books. Any student seeking financial assistance should contact the Financial Aid Office.


